Best Walkie Talkies Reviewed: Ultimate Two Way Radio Guide 2019

Have you ever wanted to be able to send messages back and forth to your friends and family members, while you hunt or ski? Although cell phones have improved significantly over the years, they’re ineffective in some particular situations.

During these predicaments, it is best to purchase and utilize a pair of walkie talkies. With these, you and your family members will be able to communicate back and forth for free and without interruption.

Of course, purchasing a pair of walkie talkies isn’t easy! Below, you’ll discover everything you need to know, before making your decision.

What to Look For in Walkie Talkies

When you own a high quality pair of walkie talkies,it is possible to improve your personal safety, when you’re out and about.

Of course, you’ll need to make sure that you choose the right pair for your particular situation. There is an entire set of characteristics and features that should be considered. These will be broken down below for your consideration.

Your Location – It should be known that there are specific walkie talkies, which are designed for use in the United Kingdom and Europe. These are typically referred to as PMR 466 Radios. Unfortunately, they cannot be legally used in the United States or Canada. Therefore, you should know the laws of your specific country, before making your pick.

How Long You Will Be Using Them – What is your intended purpose for these radios? Are you only going to use them occasionally, when you head into the great outdoors? Or maybe you only want to provide you child with a toy that will keep them entertained and busy? Make sure that you place a realistic importance level on this item, as this will help you determine how much to spend.

Budgeting – Although there are some inexpensive walkie talkies on the market, others are very costly. With this in mind, you will want to make sure to set a realistic budget. This will work in conjunction with the importance level mentioned above. For less important purposes, you can purchase walkie talkies, which are less expensive and vice versa.

UHF vs. VHF – When purchasing this type of radio, you will find that they’re available in two signal types, UHF or VHF. Usually, UHF signal is the best, but this particular type of radio will not be able to communicate effectively with VHF radios. UHF radios are great, because their signal is able to pass through obstacles easily, but you’ll need to make sure that your radio is equipped with a great antenna. VHF radios are better, if you’re going to maintain a clear line of sight with the receiver, such as when you’re outside in the wide open.

Range – Range is absolutely vital. You will find that walkie talkies are typically categorized as short-range or long-range. This refers to the distance that the radio’s signal is capable of travelling. Long-range tends to be a tad more expensive, but they’re worth it in many different circumstances.

Channels – Walkie talkies transmit audio over a shared frequency, which is generally referred to as a channel. As long as the frequency used is legal in your country, this isn’t a big deal. Also, you should inspect your area and ensure that you won’t receive a lot of interference with other radios in your area and choose the radio, which offers the least used channel.

Audio Quality – The audio quality provided by the walkie talkies is also extremely important! You’ll want to ensure that you’re able to clearly understand your friend or family member and vice versa.

Battery Life – Since these radios tend to be wireless, they always utilize some type of rechargeable battery. In this category, you should make sure to choose a battery that offers the longest life possible! This will ensure that the radio doesn’t die on you, while you’re out in the wilderness.

Audio Jack – Would you like to be able to use your walkie talkie with a pair of headphones? If so, you will want to make sure that an audio jack is available!

Belt Carrier – In order to ensure that your walkie talkie is effortless to use and carry, you should consider choosing one that comes with a belt harness or carrier. This will allow you to carry it around your pants in a hands-free fashion.

Overall, all of the above factors are absolutely vital and none of them should be ignored. Below, you will be able to find reviews for some of the best walkie talkies on the market!

Best Long Range Walkie Talkie

Midland GXT1000VP4 36-Mile 50-Channel

Are you searching for an affordable walkie talkie set that is reliable and offers a long range? If so, you should definitely keep the Midland GXT1000VP4 on your list of prospects.

This is an expensive 2-way radio set that comes with everything that you will ever need to begin using them.

The Midland has 50 channels including the NOAA weather channel, so you will have 24-hour access to any weather alerts in your locality.

You will receive a 120 volt and car charger with your order, which will offer you more options, when it comes to charging your walkie talkies. This is definitely an added bonus for those that like to go on camping and hiking trips.

The GXT1000VP4 has 3 power setting options, so you can make easy adjustments to cut down on battery powered wastes. The battery save circuit, which is a built-in feature, will also provide a longer battery life.

This will offer you a longer run-time on one charge. You will also have the option of utilizing standard AA or recharge batteries.

The LCD display is very bright and can be seen clearly, even when exposed to bright sunlight.

The keypad has a locking mechanism, which allows you to lock in your preferred settings. The midland is also equipped with a vibration alert feature, which will allow you to set the device on the silent setting, but not interfere with your incoming calls or pages.

Pros

Extremely affordable

All power cables, rechargeable batteries, and charging stand included in purchase

Equipped with a direct call feature, which will allow you to make private calls

36-Mile range option

3-Year warranty on parts and labor included

Cons

Only rain proof and not fully waterproof protected

Only holds a battery charge of around 2 hours

If you are looking for an inexpensive 2-way radio set for you and your family, then the Midland GXT1000VP4 is definitely suitable for your needs.

Amazon Customer Reviews

Best Buy Walkie Talkie

Uniden PMR 446 swpf-2CK

If you’re looking for the best overall buy, you should look no further than the Uniden Two-Way Radios!

This specific package comes with everything you need to maintain your peace of mind out in the wilderness or on the trail.

The package includes two radios, two earpieces, two belt hooks and a dual charger. Plus, the radios work exceptionally well and deliver great audio quality.

Those that are going to be out in the rain or trudging through water will love these radios, since they’re submersible. They can be submersed in up to one meter of water for 30 minutes, without damage. These radios provide the user with 6,270 channel combinations.

A direct call option is great and allows you to connect to a specific radio, without speaking to others in the group. These radios also allow you to monitor the NOAA National Weather Service to help you avoid getting trapped out in a storm. More pros can be found below.

Pros

Comes with a 30-day warranty

Includes everything you could ever need

Very lightweight and easy to carry around

Waterproof and fully submersible

Provides more safety with NOAA weather alerts

Direct call feature is great for added privacy

Very durable and can take a few drops

50 miles of range

Cons

Warranty is definitely limited

Has some squelch issues, which can be fixed with patience

Range is decreased significantly in the city

Overall, Uniden has done a wonderful job with these radios! They work well and are extremely durable!

They’re definitely built for those that are rough on their equipment! Although the warranty could be improved, these walkie talkies are well worth the overall price!

Amazon Customer Reviews

Best Walkie Talkies For Kids

BellSouth T388

Some individuals need a walkie talkie that is going to be great out in the wilderness.

However, if you’re looking for a great toy for your children, you should definitely check out the Bellsouth T388 Twin Walkie Talkie! These are incredibly affordable, which makes them perfect for children of all ages!

They’re capable of providing your toddler with 3-5 km of operational range, which should be more than sufficient for most play situations and children’s games.

They’re also equipped with a very convenient volume controller. Your child will be able to touch a button quickly and adjust the volume to their desired level.

The ergonomic and small design is great for kids and will fit their grip perfectly. A belt clip is also included, so your child can pack around the walkie talkie, without difficulty.

An alert will notify you when the batteries are running low, so you can replacement them quickly. With aprox 70 hours of battery life, this won’t happen often! These radios are equipped with 8 channels, which should be enough for your children!

Pros

Perfectly designed for children and toddlers

70 hours of battery life

2 miles or 3 km or range

Includes a convenient belt clip

Incredibly affordable

Tons of fun for the entire family

Cons

Range could be improved

Craftsmanship is somewhat questionable

Overall, the Bellsouth T388 Twin Walkie Talkie is great for children. Despite having a few noticeable flaws, the price helps to alleviate these. If you’re looking for a fun pair of radios for your children, these are well worth checking out!

Amazon Customer Reviews

Best Walkie Talkie For Skiing

Motorola MT350R FRS Weatherproof

If you are looking for a set of walkie talkies that will offer you a long service life, you definitely should consider the Motorola MT350R.

Motorola brand understand the important of reliability and longevity, which is why they equipped the FRS with the weatherproof ID.

This not only protects the inner components from moisture, but will also effectively keep dust and debris out, as well.

The MT350R has 22 channels including the NOAA weather channel, so you can monitor and receive any weather alerts in your locality.

It is also equipped with a flashlight, so you can utilize it to light up small areas. This feature will offer you convenience, when you are hiking or camping outdoors.

The NiMH rechargeable batteries offer 10 hours of run-time on one charge. You also have the option of utilizing 3 AA alkaline batteries, which will also last up to 10 hours.

This is great for those that prefer to hike long distances, because they will not have access to an electrical outlet. You will receive a USB cable with your purchase, so you can charge the walkie talkies from your computer or laptop.

The Motorola two-way radio is equipped with several options, which will offer different ranges, while allowing you to preserve your battery life. Be sure to utilize the low setting feature, when you are within close proximity of your partners.​

Pros

Long battery life with the option of utilizing rechargeable or alkaline batteries

Offers a 35-mile range

Equipped with the NOAA weather radio channel

Extremely affordable

Measurements are 8” L x 2.5” W

Cons

Does not comes with a car charging cable

Does not come with a docking charging station, but charges with a 100-240 volt adapter

If you are looking for an affordable, reliable two-way radio set for you and your children, you should look no further than the Motorola MT35OR.

question

FAQ's

Q: Does this Motorola model have a voice activated function?

A: Yes, works perfectly with the headset that is supplied when purchasing.

Amazon Customer Reviews

Cheap Walkie Talkie

Proster PST-888S 2 pcs Walkie Talkies

Are you getting ready to head out on the trails and then you will definitely need a reliable and durable walkie talkie sets.

If you have children, you definitely know how clumsy they can be at times, which means their electronic devices are always at risk of danger.

With the VOX function, it is possible to utilize these radios in a hands-free manner. Despite the low cost, these radios are capable of transmitting audio for approximately 2 miles.

The Proster definitely has a very unique design, which is very desirable for children and it will fit perfectly in their hands.

The safety clip, which is located on the back of the walkie talkie, will offer the child a great way to hang it on their backpack or pocket. This will prevent them from losing the device, which will protect you from financial loss.

Pros

Extremely affordable

16 Memory Channels available

A power saving function is also included

Can be programmed from a PC

Includes 2 belt clips and 2 links

Comes with an 18-month guarantee

Works great over short distances

Cons

Range could be better

Audio could be a little better

Overall, the PROSTER PST-888S walkie talkies are great for the overall price! Although they’re inexpensive, they’re durable, reliable and come with a fairly decent warranty! Be sure to check them out further today!

Amazon Customer Reviews

Binatone Latitude 150 Twin Walkie Talkies

Whether you are an avid hunter or hiker, you know the importance of a good set of walkie-talkies.

If you are looking for a good affordable set of walkie-talkies that can stand up to the test of time, then you need to be looking at the Binatone Latitude 150 Twin Walkie Talkies.

With a communication range of 1.8 miles you will be able to keep close contact with your friends, while you are in dangerous situations.

These compact talkies feature a molded grip on the handsets that provides the users with a comfortable and very easy to use grip. The 8 different channels offer you a variety of communication options.

The low battery warning will let you know when your batteries are getting low. This will prevent you from getting lost out in those thick woods without any communication.

The channel scan feature allows you to search for other users on the same channel. The walkie-talkies will beep when the communication is over, letting the user on the other end know it is okay to respond to your message. Handy LED light lets you know how strong your signal is.

Pros

Very affordable for the average person

8 different channels offer maximum communication options

Search for different users on every channel

Low battery light lets you know when your batteries are running out

LED light indicates your signal strength

Very comfortable to handle

Offers up to 1.8 miles of signal strength

Cons

Does not include all the feature that a more expensive set would include

Overall, the Binatone Latitude 150 is a high-quality walkie talkie that offers reliability, durability, and a long service life.

Amazon Customer Reviews

Cobra MT975 PMR446 Walkie Talkie Radio

If you are in the market for a good quality set of walkie-talkies, then you need to be looking at the Cobra MT975 PMR446.

These two-way radios are great for outdoor events or family outings. The talkies offer a 7-mile signal range, which is off the charts in terms of walkie-talkies. This is not to even mention all the other features they will offer you.

The dual watch facility allows the user to monitor two separate frequencies for voice activity at the same time. This makes it incredibly easy for you to set the channel you want to communicate on.

These radios have 8 separate channels with 121 different frequencies on each channel. Basically, this means there are hundreds of frequencies for secure communication. The backlit LCD display makes it easy to see the screen in dark areas.

Not only can you use these talkies out in the woods, but they will also double as a baby monitor.

Each talkie can be set to vibration alert, so you won’t have to worry about spooking your prey, while you are out in the woods. The battery saver feature makes sure that you get the longest lifespan out of the battery.

Pros

Outstanding 7-mile signal range

Monitor two separate frequencies at one time

8 separate channels with over 100 frequencies to communicate on

Can be used as a baby monitor

Silent vibration alert keeps the users stealthy

LCD screen lights up

Battery saver feature offers longer battery life

Cons

More expensive than most brands

If you consider the craftsmanship and quality of the Cobra MT975, you will not even factor in the price tag.

Amazon Customer Reviews

Motorola TLKR T80 Extreme Two-way Radio

Are you are looking for a good dependable set of walkie-talkies and do not care to spend a little extra money?

If so, then the Motorola TLKR T80 Extreme Two-Way Radios might just be what you are looking for. With signal strength over 6 miles, you will be able to keep in contact in the roughest of conditions.

The two-way radios offer users 8 different channels and over 100 different frequencies for good secure communications. This is not to even mention that they are weatherproof.

The talkies operate on 4 AAA batteries, which guarantees the users at least 16 hours work of operation time. The battery indicator will even notify users, when the battery life in getting low.

The backlit LCD display makes everything very easy to read while you are in rough terrain. Not only can hunters, campers, and hikers utilize these radios, but they can also be used by the everyday mother or farther. The radios will double as a baby monitor.

Upon the purchase of this product you will receive hand straps, headphones, carrying case, belt clip, power adapter, and dual charging stand. You will basically get everything you need right out of the box.

Pros

Over a 6-mile signal range

8 different channels with over 100 frequencies

16 hours battery life

Low battery indicator lets users known when the battery is dying

Backlit LCD for easy screen reading

Can even be used as a baby monitor

Stand up to the toughest of weather conditions

Cons

Slightly more expensive than most brands

Only available in bright yellow

Overall, the Motorola TLKR T80 is a very high-quality two-way radio brand that will offer an extremely long service life. They will never let you down, even in the most extreme conditions.

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